Chemo

Hi Teddy5  I had very similar to you, 4 EC and 4 Paclitaxol. With EC unfortunately you will lose your hair unless you opt for cold cap. I did this and although I lost about 70% of my hair, I’m glad I did it as my hair was already growing back during the Paclitaxol and is now really thick and way ahead of people who didn’t cold cap!

you can get dry skin during chemo, I moisturised daily and just used Vaseline or Aveno moisturiser as they don’t have chemicals. For hair, I used faith in nature shampoo & conditioner as didn’t find simple was very good! 

I was very lucky and didn’t get sick so continued to work (albeit from home) but everyone reacts differently. Take a book or tablet to watch a film or something as there’s a lot of sitting around! Sugar free sweets are good if you get the metallic taste in your mouth. 

I had a PICC line, once it healed it was easier than a cannular as all your bloods are taken from there so no being stabbed with a needle constantly! 

happy to answer any other questions you might have, otherwise good luck! 

Thanks for this question Teddy5 and reply.

I am starting chemo in January same drugs as Shellbell24. I was not sure about the cold cap but after your comments I will try it. I am retired and quite concerned about the effects of the drugs so pleased to hear your side effects were such that you could continue working. I know everyone is different but fingers crossed my response will be manageable too.

I am having a PICC line put in too and hope that it stays in so they can take bloods from this as well as put in the chemo drugs.

Hope your chemo goes well Teddy5

I always say, give it a go. If you opt for cold cap you must do it from the start so better to try and find it’s not for you than not try at all. The nurses at my chemo unit were encouraging women to try it 

one tip, take a paracetamol an hour before your treatment, it helps with the cold. If you lose a lot hair, also ask for a surgical cap as it gives a little layer so the cold isn’t going directly on your scalp.

good luck! 

I used cold cap and kept enough hair that I never had to wear a wig or scarf. I have thick hair. I only washed it once or at most twice in between sessions. I used baby shampoo sometimes Waterman's shampoo and conditioner. Jenifer Young does cosmetics for Cancer patients expensive but it's Christmas... I was a teacher but couldn't work except following chemo during COVID from home. But I know of people who do manage to work for not every day but for some in-between sessions. Good luck. Rely on family and friends. Good luck x

Hi Teddy

 I’m half way through chemo.

 I’m 52 and have just had three EC and start Docetaxil tomorrow.

I opted not to go with cold cap although I did consider it. I was thinking my hair would probably mostly come out but I know lots of ladies give it a go.

I have had my treatment via cannula so far which has been ok.

I am a sicky person I guess so found myself very nauseous during first session. The oncologist prescribed me anti nausea tablets which have helped. They give them to me just before treatment and some to take home with me.

 One thing I’ve learnt along the way is that of course, everyone is different but as some have said it’s ‘do-able’.

 Have you got a thermometer? I got cheap one off Amazon just to check temperature.

 Also been told to ensure you stay hydrated. 

I spoke to nurse today who recommended Aveeno. My lovely friend bought me a big tub. I have been using Johnson’s baby shampoo which has been very gentle and smells nice on the little hair I have left.

I’ve been off work for some time now although I’m lucky to have a lovely boss who is very understanding. I hope to go back after Christmas. Everything has been so fast paced and like a bad dream at times! I had single mastectomy but sometimes wish I had double as I know I’ll just stress out about it! Anyway, always here for a chat or advice along with the lovely ladies on here ( and men sorry!).

Good luck with your treatment xxx

i have same chemo...you can see my posts and this one about docetexal:  Docetexal side effects  which has references to ec as well

Hi, 

I have to have the same, I’m due to have  my picc line put in on the 4th Jan and start treatment on the 5th. I’ve opted to try cold capping. Im very nervous but taking each day as it comes. I’m also interested in any info people can give.

i hope you’re treatment goes well 

Hi Teddy5 

I’m currently on 5 out of 6 chemo cycles and have had EC and Docetaxel. Side effects are so individual and how someone else reacts may not be the effects you see. EC was brutal on my brain - very foggy head, tired, dizzy and taste. It was tough but ok after the first week. I’m now on D and have found this sooooo different. I’ve had shivers and aches and pain. It’s like having the flu. My brain has been fine though which I’m pleased with. 

Picc line was scary but it’s been so useful. Means I’m not having to have repeated injections and bloods which leads to bruising. So simple once you get used to it (can feel a bit weird and sore at first). 

My skin is dry already so I already used a rich cream. I’ve found creams with strong scents off putting as I’m linking them to chemo. Aveeno has been the best for me as it’s not scented. Even helped with cracked and bleeding hands which wasn’t pleasant. Also lush do a bumble shea scrub bar. That’s been amazing for my skin. Creates a barrier which stops it from drying out. I even use it on my scalp most days. 

I tried the cold cap but gave up on round 2 as half my hair started coming out anyway. Just shaved it off and it was so much easier. It meant I was not focused on losing my hair and I felt more in control. This isn’t for everyone but it’s your choice. 

Good luck with your treatment x